mineral
Imperial Topaz
Aluminum Silicate Fluoride Hydroxide Al2SiO4(F,OH)2
Hardness: 8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden orange to peachy-pink; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 3.49-3.57
- Hardness
- 8
- Color
- Golden orange to peachy-pink
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden orange to peachy-pink; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 3.49-3.57
Formation & geological history
Formed in high-temperature igneous environments, particularly in pegmatites and volcanic rocks (rhyolites) via fluorine-bearing vapors during the final stages of solidification.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a high-value gemstone in jewelry and as a prized mineral specimen for collectors due to its rarity and color.
Geological facts
Imperial Topaz is the rarest variety of topaz. Historically, it was named to honor the Russian Tsars of the 19th century because the pink variety was only allowed to be worn by the Royal Family.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its high hardness (it can scratch quartz), its distinct prismatic crystal shape with vertical striations, and its high specific gravity which makes it feel heavy for its size. The Ouro Preto region of Brazil is the most famous source.
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